Graves' disease

a disorder typified by THYROID GLAND overactivity (see HYPERTHYROIDISM ), an enlargement of the gland and protruding eyes. It is caused by antibody production and is probably an autoimmune response (see AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE ). Patients commonly exhibit excess metabolism (because thyroid hormones control the body's metabolism), nervousness, tremor, hyperactivity, rapid heart rate, an intolerance of heat, breathlessness, and so on. Treatment may follow one of three courses: drugs to control the thyroid's production of hormones; surgery to remove part of the thyroid; or radioactive iodine therapy.